When seniors engage in creative hobbies, these activities often give them a sense of purpose, lift their mood, and provide them with feelings of independence. In addition, staying creative past 65 can even have a positive impact on mental and physical wellbeing. Here are four simple ways your elderly loved one can get more creative and remain healthy as a result.
1. Write
Writing gives seniors the chance to access memories, tell stories, and exercise their imaginations. See if there’s a local creative writing class or group your loved one can join. You can also find fun writing prompts to inspire your loved one, then encourage him or her to share the work with you and other family members.
Creative writing is especially helpful for seniors with dementia because it allows them to express themselves via a pressure-free outlet. Dementia can be challenging for seniors to manage, but they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional dementia care. Victoria seniors can benefit greatly from the Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM), an activities-based program designed to promote cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. CTM is included at no additional charge with any of the in-home care plans provided by Home Care Assistance.
2. Dance
For mobile seniors, dance classes are often a fun, active way to stay creative. Dancing provides similar health benefits as aerobics, but dancing is often more mentally stimulating. In a dance class, your loved one will need to remember patterns and combinations, which provides mental stimulation. Studies have shown dance is also beneficial for seniors with dementia because it creates an experience they can appreciate in the moment.
Even if seniors have mobility issues or health challenges, they can still get the benefits of dancing and other forms of exercise, especially with the help of trained professional caregivers. Elderly home care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.
3. Paint
Painting can inspire your loved one to look at the world in a different way. Processing visual information exercises the brain, which can keep your parent mentally alert. Search for a local senior painting class where your loved one can learn new skills, create unique art, and socialize with other seniors in the community.
4. Play Music
Just listening to music can enhance mood, reduce anxiety, and increase overall cognitive capacities. However, your loved one may also benefit from learning how to play music. Playing an instrument like the piano, violin, or flute flexes mental muscles, keeps fingers agile, and provides a number of psychological benefits.
Creativity stimulates the mind and the body, both of which are crucial to a senior’s health. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional in-home care. Victoria, BC, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. To learn about our high-quality in-home care services, give us a call at (250) 592-4881 today.